Gweru has received a major boost to service delivery after the commissioning of municipal equipment worth US$1.5 million, a development expected to improve road rehabilitation, refuse collection and other critical public services.
The new fleet, procured by Gweru City Council using its own revenue, forms part of the Government’s devolution agenda aimed at empowering local authorities to deliver efficient and sustainable services to residents.
The equipment commissioned includes an excavator, two graders, a water bowser, a road-marking machine, a double-drum vibratory roller, a vibratory plate compactor, a jumping jack compactor, two rotary mower slashers, a skip bin, two fire engines, four Gwenhoro low-lift electric motors, two 75-horsepower tractors and a utility vehicle.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Owen Ncube, said the investment demonstrated the Second Republic’s commitment to improving service delivery through devolution.
“Today’s event bears testimony to the Second Republic’s bold and strategic policy direction underpinned by the call to action of no compromise to service delivery. I commend Gweru City Council for prioritising the procurement of key plant and equipment using its own revenue to support a comprehensive road rehabilitation programme,” he said.
Minister Ncube said the acquisition of the equipment would enhance the council’s capacity to maintain roads, improve waste management and provide quality municipal services that directly benefit residents.
Gweru Mayor, Councillor Martin Chivhoko, said the investment marked a significant milestone in the city’s efforts to modernise service delivery.
“This is the commissioning of the City of Gweru’s newly acquired plant and equipment, all valued at US$1.5 million. The equipment is expected to greatly enhance service provision across the city,” he said.
Residents welcomed the development, expressing hope that it would lead to better roads and improved municipal services.
“This development will make it easier to repair roads and potholes, especially in the areas where we live. Improved service delivery will enhance the image of our city. We appreciate the Government’s continued investment in development,” said one resident.
The commissioning comes as Gweru continues to implement several infrastructure projects under the Second Republic, including road rehabilitation, power generation initiatives, model schools, mini-hospitals and public-private partnerships in waste management, smart metering and market infrastructure.
Plans are also underway to modernise Mtapa Market as part of broader efforts to improve trading facilities, create a cleaner business environment and support informal traders while stimulating local economic growth.
